Odontonema cuspidatum (Fire Spike)

Odontonema cuspidatum

Botanical names: Odontonema cuspidatum, Odontonema strictum

Common name: Fire Spike

Origin: Central America

Odontonema cuspidatum (Firespike) is a tropical evergreen shrub native to Mexico and Central America. It forms upright stems with large, glossy, deep green leaves and produces long spikes of tubular scarlet-red flowers that attract hummingbirds and butterflies. Reaching 4 to 6 feet in height, it creates a lush backdrop in gardens and is often planted as an ornamental hedge or accent. The vibrant blooms, appearing from late summer into fall, make it one of the most striking flowering shrubs for warm climates. This plant is also widely encountered in horticulture under the older name Odontonema strictum.

Odontonema cuspidatum grows best in partial shade but will also tolerate full sun if given adequate moisture. It prefers fertile, well-drained soil and responds well to pruning, which encourages dense regrowth and heavier flowering. Though not frost hardy, it can be overwintered indoors in containers in colder regions, where it adapts well to pot culture. It is suited for USDA Zones 9-11, with plants tolerating brief dips to about 30F, but protection is required in cooler conditions.